Officials in Lincoln County, Oregon, are condemning an anonymous letter urging residents to report “brown folks” suspected of being undocumented immigrants. The letter, described as harmful and divisive, has been circulated widely, according to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.
In a Facebook post, Sheriff Curtis Landers denounced the letter, emphasizing that such behavior undermines trust and safety in the community. “This type of behavior is harmful, divisive, and inconsistent with the values we uphold as public servants and community members,” Landers wrote. “Targeting individuals in this manner erodes trust and undermines the sense of safety and inclusion that we strive to maintain in Lincoln County.”
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The letter, riddled with typos and inflammatory language, makes threats against undocumented immigrants and falsely claims that the Department of Homeland Security will initiate a large-scale deportation operation in January 2025. It bears an invalid return address and has been received by multiple local officials, including Toledo Mayor Rod Cross.
“I am livid,” Mayor Cross said during a city council meeting on December 18. “This is not America. This is not who we are.”
Oregon State Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum also condemned the letter, stating that it seeks to divide communities through intimidation. “Attempts to intimidate our communities and their leaders through racist letter-writing campaigns have no place in Oregon,” Rosenblum said in a statement. She reaffirmed Oregon’s identity as an “open, welcoming, and safe” state for all individuals.
The letter’s circulation comes as national conversations around immigration intensify. While it references a “round-up of brown illegals,” it does not directly mention President-elect Donald Trump, who made controversial campaign promises about mass deportations.
Sheriff Landers, who also received a copy of the letter in his personal mailbox, confirmed that while the letter’s contents may not constitute a crime, the FBI has been notified. He reiterated that Oregon law prohibits law enforcement from inquiring about or sharing an individual’s immigration status without a judicial warrant.
“Oregon’s sanctuary law is foundational to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals,” Landers stated. Adopted in 1987, Oregon’s sanctuary law prevents local and state law enforcement from participating in immigration enforcement activities without a warrant.
Community leaders are urging residents to reject the letter’s divisive message and stand together in fostering inclusivity. “It is time to rise above these despicable tactics and demonstrate the true spirit of compassion and inclusivity that defines the Oregon way,” Attorney General Rosenblum said.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office continues to work with local and federal authorities to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of all community members.
